Filling Out a Blank DD214 Form

A DD Form 214 of DD214 is a formed used by the United States Department of Defense when a service member of the United States military is discharged, retires, or separates from being active duty military. The branches of the military in the United States include the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Army, the U.S Air Force, the U.S. Marine Corps, and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Why is the Blank DD214 Form PDF used for?

The DD214 is used by the government in order to ensure that veterans are fully able to receive their benefits. Benefits of this could include a variety of different services such as an individual’s eligibility to receive a burial in a military cemetery. An employer might request a DD214 form in order to verify proof of an individual serving in the military and their respective dates of service.

Who Would Use the Blank DD214 Form PDF?

A DD214 is maintained and held by the United States government. It is used by military personnel to help secure military benefits and can also be used by employers in order for a former member of the military to show proof of service.

When Should You Use the Blank DD214 Form PDF?

A DD214 needs to be filled out when a service member retires from, separates from, or is discharged from the military. A commanding officer should direct an individual on how to fill out this documentation and alert an individual about any necessary deadlines. There are different copies of this form that are needed by different individuals and organizations. For example Copy 1 is given to the service member whereas Copy 3 is given to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.

What are the Consequences for not Using a Blank DD214 Form PDF?

A DD214 is necessary in order for a veteran to show proof of their service and also in order for a veteran to show eligibility for any military benefits they might be eligible to receive. Since it is a government form, failure to fill out a DD214 form properly could result in legal consequences or disciplinary action from the U.S. government and military. Furthermore, failure to fill out a DD214 form correctly could limit an individual’s ability to receive their military benefits or prohibit them from showing a potential employer proof of their service in the military.

Steps for Filling Out a Blank DD214 PDF Form

It is important to fill out a DD214 form correctly so that you can receive all of your military benefits of show a potential employer proof of your service in the United states military.

First, collect all items that you need: – Military History Report Awards, Decorations and Honors Military Education Certificates Military Travel Orders and Vouchers

Make sure that all of the items you gather correctly match up with any information that is shown on your military history report. Bring all of this information when you see your agent about out-processing. The office of this agent might vary depending on which branch of the service you happen to be in.

Alert your agent to any differences between your awards and the information on your military history report. Make all of these corrections now so you won’t have to worry about them in the future.

Complete your form with the guidance of our out-processing agent or online at-home. Make sure you fill out all blanks carefully. Failure to fill out the document correctly could mean that you have to receive a new form or file for a DD215 later. The differences between a DD215 and a DD214 are highlighted below.

Wait to receive the copy of your form. There are various copies that will be distributed throughout various agencies to make sure you are fully eligible to receive your benefits. Losing this form could limit your access to your benefits or lead to identity theft so be sure to secure it carefully.

Quick Questions

The DD214 form should take several weeks to months to be processed by the National Personnel Records Center otherwise known as NPRC.

If your employer needs to receive a copy of your DD214 form more quickly, you can reach out to hire a private research company. An example of a company that provides this service is Touchstone Research group. Their team offers an express service that can reduce the amount of time it takes to receive your form.

A DD215 form is used only in the event you need to correct any errors or make any additions to your DD214. This would only be used after your original DD214 form is processed and received and you need to make changes.